PUP.Optional.Installrex

PUP.Optional.Installrex is a name assigned by Malwarebytes Anti-malware and other security programs to programs or code that tries to install unknown software on the PC. The potentially unwanted program that is being installed by PUP.Optional.Installrex could be an adware, tools, or games that have other intentions, somehow malicious.

Files identified as PUP.Optional.Installrex are not virus or malware. They can be categorized as potentially unwanted program that uses various tricks to get inside the computer without your permission. Presence of PUP.Optional.Installrex can lead to various annoyances like browser redirect, toolbar, and pop-up ads containing coupons, online discounts, and deals.

Why PUP?

PUP is the term used to claim a program that not so many computer users want or need. It is Potentially Unwanted Program. In short, it will get into the computer even without your request; even you do not want its presence. In particular, PUP.Optional.Installrex is a module of any programs that tries to install unknown program.

Why Optional?

Optional was used in this detection due to some instances that user may opt-out in the installation of the unknown software like browser add-on, plug-in, toolbar and search engine. When PUP.Optional.Installrex comes bundled with shareware, there is a portion in the installation process where in unknown software will be installed by default. All you have to do is remove the check mark to exclude this adware from the install process.

How to Remove PUP.Optional.Installrex

Stage 1: Scan the Computer with ESET Rogue Application Remover (ERAR)

1. Download the free scanner called ESET Rogue Application Remover.Download Link for ERAR (this will open a new window)

2. Choose appropriate version for your Windows System. Save the file to a convenient location, preferably on Desktop.

3. After downloading the file, Windows will prompt that download has completed. Click Run to start the program. Another option is to browse the location folder and double click on the file ERARemover_.exe.

2. The tool automatically checks the operating system and suggest appropriate download version. Click on Download button to begin. Save the file to a convenient location, preferably on Desktop.

3. After downloading the file, Windows will prompt that download has completed. Click Run to start scanning for PUP.Optional.Installrex. Another option is to browse the location folder and double click on the file to run.

4. The tool will display Welcome screen, click Next. Please note the message “This tool is not a replacement for an antivirus product.” You must understand that this program is made specifically to find and remove malware, viruses, Trojans, and other harmful elements on the computer. It was not designed to protect the computer.

5. Next, you will see Scan Type. Please choose Full Scan to ensure that all PUP.Optional.Installrex entities and other harmful files left on the computer will be found and removed. For advanced computer user, you can opt for Customized Scan, if there are other drives or folders you wanted to include in this scan.

6. Full scan may take a while, please wait for Malicious Software Removal Tool to complete the tasks. However, you may cancel the scan anytime by clicking on the Cancel button.

7. After scanning, the tool will reveal all identified threats. There may be other threats that our first scan fails to detect. Please remove/delete all detected items.

8. When removal procedure is complete, you may now close Malicious Software Removal Tool. We hope that PUP.Optional.Installrex have been completely deleted from the computer. Please restart Windows to proceed with the normal operation.